Okay, so it's been forever since I've posted. It wasn't that I forgot about Little Den, not at all; in fact, I pined for it. I wished I had the energy to complete the things I had in mind, but found that I was tail-spinning into a life that offered next to zero work-life balance, and it left me drained and uninspired.

So, why am I here now? Well, because I got fired.

This is not an easy thing for me to admit. I've never been the girl that got 'let-go', that's not a part of the professional image I had constructed for myself. In all of my prior jobs, my employers wanted me to stay when I left. But there I was, holding my last paycheck, offered a box for my belongings, asked to hand over my keys and leave the building.

I had worked for the company for nearly two years. The last time I had been sat down for a meeting, it was for a raise and a bonus. It wasn't my dream job, but I was still stunned. Mostly, I was hurt. The answer they gave me when I asked why? was unsatisfactory, though a sudden release wasn't uncommon in my workplace. However, this post isn't about trashing my former employers. Despite the end, I gained experience, made good contacts, and found financial stability.

The week after was a reckoning. There I was, twenty-five, and my life didn't even remotely resemble what my ten-year-old, sixteen-year-old, hell, even my twenty-two-year-old self thought my life was going to look like at this point. Twenty-five sounds, well, pretty adult. Shouldn't I have things generally sorted at this point? Instead, I was abruptly unemployed, the thought of grad school abandoned, in a long distance relationship with a Marine, watching my parents divorce. This had not been the plan.

I've been known to succumb to destructive anxious circular thinking, those thoughts that play in a non-stop loop, sometimes to the detriment of my physical health. With this in my past, it seemed like the natural next step in between filing for unemployment and trying to come up with a reason to wear something other than sweatpants. That voice does whisper somewhere in the back of my mind, you should be freaking out about this, but weirdly enough... I'm not listening. Actually, it's been awhile since I've felt this good.

My life has gone off-script. Pretty much any plan I had going is now a pile of smoldering embers. And it makes me laugh. It's liberating. My boyfriend even told me over FaceTime that I look cuter than ever, because I look so happy. So that Roald Dahl quote about having good thoughts shining out of your eyeballs like sunbeams or whatever? Totally true, apparently.

Here's the thing about going off-script, you get to rewrite the whole thing. Turns out, it isn't as scary as it sounds. Because even though the preconceived notion of my mid-twenties-existence is out the window, I'm not starting over. I'm good at things; I have skills and passions and a big-ass smile, which I've found counts for a lot. If your future goes blank, remember your past won't, and there are plenty of strengths you've stored there. You have enough to go forward, and just maybe, that terrible thing isn't quite so terrible as you thought.

If I was adding skills to my LinkedIn profile (which I've been doing a lot of lately), prayer probably isn't one I'd list. I've always been bad about asking for help, even from God. Losing my job has been a humbling experience, it brought me low, looking outside of myself. In this place, I found it was suddenly much easier to ask God for this guidance, because I could see I didn't have this whole situation sorted out. So I ask God pretty frequently now to help lay a path for me, show me where I should go. I ask if I'm right to think that it's time to try something new, take a risk, strike out on my own like my heart is calling for. It seems that every time I ask, something comes to me in affirmation of my desires, whether it be a card from a friend, a new opportunity, a well-placed compliment from a stranger. In these moments, I laugh a little, and cast my eyes upward.

For the time being, at least, you'll find me relishing in the blank page and the strength of a prayer.

"If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeamsand you will always look lovely."-Roald Dahl

Changin' it up this Wednesday with a new source of inspiration! I've been fostering a long time obsession with the Russian street star turned couture star Ulyana Sergeenko, whose closet I'd give just about anything to play in for a day. Today I'm sharing my favorites of her street style as well as her 6 collections (It's hard to believe she's only been doing this since 2011!). Once you get scrolling, you'll be surprised to know that this is actually a pared down showing of my favorite images (like I mentioned, obsessed).

She's even cute in pants! And I love how her headscarves equally evoke Jackie O. and a Russian nesting doll.

Fall/Winter 2011

It still boggles my mind that this was her debut collection...

Spring/Summer 2012

This look on the right is my favorite from this collection. Not sure where I'd wear it (it's perhaps a touch too risque for the office holiday party), but I want it all the same.

Fall/Winter 2012

This collection to me seems like a very fantastically weird merging of WWII Russia in the dead of winter and Little Red Riding Hood. This collection was criticized for being too fairy tale, but I really just think that's her vibe.

Spring/Summer 2013

This collection may just be my favorite (though we know how that goes...). It's also quite obvious that Ulyana didn't take any of her critics too seriously when it came to toning down the fantasy aspects of her style.

You may say it's impractical, but I need this voluminous red cape and the peach silk bodysuit and I will not be convinced otherwise.

The lookbook for this collection was totally dreamy too, with a milkmaid-meets-royalty vibe.﻿

Fall/Winter 2013

I've been wanting a pair of short gloves in just plain white for awhile, but now I think maybe some rhinestoned coral ones would be nice as well...

Spring/Summer 2014

Ulyana's most recent collection is also a contender for my favorite; I'm just such a sucker for candy-colored silks!

This one this one this one. LOVE.

Looking forward to what she will continue to produce (and wear!)Until then, xox Rachel

We've made it to Wednesday! Since it's Hairstyle Appreciation Day, it seemed only appropriate to be inspired by some stellar hair today! Here's my favorites from Pinterest, Instagram, and blogs!

Pinterest

1. This is just example one of my obsession with flower bedecked tresses; prepare yourself.2. I don't know how this is possible, but messy buns are just so... pretty.3. Flowers AND butterflies! If I could get a way with such a whimsical look at the office, you best believe I would.4. I could, however, probably go with a statement ponytail.5. This little cutie is so awesome, and she definitely can rock a killer pompadour (yes, I am having hair envy over a seven year old).

Instagram

1. Thanks to flowergirllosangeles, I'm now having flower crown envy over a seven year old #thestruggleisreal2. Randomactsofpastel recreates Marie Antoinette in a way that's so evocative of the Sophia Coppola film, all the while seeming totally wearable.3. I love this wildfoxcouture illustration with that bubble gum pink hair! Such lovely watercolor work.4. Annariflebond's new haircut is so darling! Could she be any cuter?5. Gotta keep those locks in check! This "Get It Together" comb from izolanyc is just the ticket!6. More pink hair... lateafternoon's spontaneous color change has me wishing that I could go pastel (has anyone tried hair chalk??)

Blogs

1. Love the blocky texture of this painted hair by Erin Fitzpatrick, shared on The Jealous Curator.2. The sparkly, dewy look of this bun paired with fresh greenery brings such freshness to a more wintery look.3. Design Love Fest posted a great tutorial for a textured look, featuring a fishtail braid, and hair chalk... (I feel like this is a sign for me to try hair chalk. The cosmos want this.)4. The tiny lavender bow bedecked ponytails in the newest For Love & Lemons lookbook have me wanting to try out this hairstyle (not to mention the clothes, but don't even get me started on that).5. More lookbook love, this time for the luscious curls featured in the Wildfox Couture "Royal Romance" shoot.

Hope you're inspired to try something new with your hair...but maybe not so inspired that you run out and buy hair chalk on your lunch break. Talking to myself, sorry.With (imaginary) flowers in my hair, Rachel

I'm not a big TV watcher; I actually don't own one, and haven't for the majority of the past 5 or so years. I do however have Netflix on my laptop; while I may not be the type to sit down every Monday at 9 to watch a particular show... I am the type to sit down and watch an entire season in one night. It's an embarrassing admission, but everyone's done it... I think? (I hope!) One of my most recent Netflix binges was "Paradise," a short-lived BBC show based on Emile Zola's Au Bonheur des Dames, about a department store just prior to the turn of the century. It only aired for 2 seasons, and only one is actually on Netflix, but I can't get enough of the gorgeous set design. The store is filled with objects that you just want to reach out and touch through the screen, outfitted with lavish furniture, counters, and wallpaper. All in hues of pale pink and aqua, it's just an absolute dream.

The store is over-the-top lavish, particularly because of the remarkable detail in every set. All of the elements are sumptuous and lovely, and I couldn't help but think how nice it would be to have some of them in your own living space! Here are some of my favorite screen shots from the first episode which really highlight the extravagance, along with some items that can easily recreate some of Paradise's charm in your own home!

The Shop Floor

The Paradise is unique and extraordinary at the time because of it's sheer size, volume, and how the entire space feels so thoroughly thought out and inviting (and makes you want to shop!). I love the architectural features and the heavy, ornate counters paired with the softness of sheer curtains, delicate feathers, and low lighting reflecting off shimmering glass surfaces.

The Details

A lot of what is so charming about the Paradise's set design are the home-like details that are mixed in with the store's glamour. There are tapestries and little shelves lining the stairs, and displays of flowers among the dress forms; it would make it easy to imagine such a lovely item in your own home! Those eclectic combination of elements bring such a lush warmth to the space.

The Ladies' Wear Department

Perhaps the most impressive space of all is the Ladies' Wear department. This is where the show's main character, Denise, goes to work. It takes lovely to a whole new level; a big smattering of Parisian luxury in a small, very not Parisian town. The mix of store and lounge makes it the perfect style inspiration to use for a bedroom; it's easy to recreate with hanging racks to display pretty dresses, tufted furniture, floral prints, and gold detailing. The use of sky and blush is swoon worthy, too.

This is week is National Administrative Assistants Week, and as an admin myself, I felt it was only right to take a moment and commemorate some of the great assistants of pop culture (as well as how to emulate their awesomeness).

No secretarial list would be complete if it didn't include the infamous "Joanie", known for her curves and the red hair that is just as fiery as her attitude. Loved, revered, and never underestimated, Joan puts out office fires like nobody's business, all the while looking her finest in a dress with a boldly cut neckline and her pencil necklace. For all her feminine attributes, she certainly knows how to be one of the boys, and smokes like an absolute chimney (these days, a cigarette case makes a great credit card holder). One of my favorite Joan moments? That time she smashed a vase over the head of her nincompoop of a husband.

While Lucy may not be the most efficient or drama-free admin we've ever been graced with, it's hard to deny her greatness. Whether it be her high pitched squeak of a voice when she gets angry, her scrunchied ponytails, sweaters and lacy collars, or maybe even her baby-daddy drama, there's something undeniably lovable about the girl (which is probably why Officer Harry Truman doesn't fire her). And, there's something to be said for the fact that she always has donuts ready for meetings, and she's one of the few (only) characters to get a happy ending on the show.

Walter Eugene "Radar" O'Reilly is the only guy to join the list, but his spot is well earned. Nicknamed "Radar" for his uncanny ability to hear "choppers" (helicopters) before everyone else and complete tasks before they are requested, he is perhaps the most universally loved member of the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital 4077. Always seen in a knit cap and his glasses, the corporal constantly attempts to appear older (all the while sleeping with a teddy bear and adopting all manner of Korean bunnies, cats, dogs, and guinea pigs).

And one could not forget the unforgettable Kitty Sanchez, the cuckoo frizzy-haired and cross-eyed receptionist of the Bluth company. She is much loved my a couple of the Bluth men, often making waves for the rest of the family. While she's not the admin you ever want working for you, it's undeniable that her boob flashing, cooler stealing, turtleneck wearing, blackmailing self is hard to not find entertaining. Just promise me one thing.... don't get an asymmetrical boob job, okay?

Ever since I went to my first flea market in the 7th grade to buy my costume for a school production of Guys & Dolls, I've been pretty much obsessed with vintage. Starting then, and to this day, much of my wardrobe has consisted of thrift store finds, and there's nothing that gets my heart pounding quite like spotting a vintage dress from across the store. This post is dedicated to my favorite decades, the 1920s through the 1950s, and how to achieve their classic styles for you and your home!

1920s

Get the Look

Let's get Gatsby with it. Don your sparkles, your feathers, the T-strap heels, and that dropped waist dress and hit the town! Don't forget your flask, or maybe just your tote bag for errand running. Luxe looks aren't only for clothing; with the discovery of King Tut's tomb in 1922, the generation's Bright Young Things quickly adopted the new themes into their wardrobe and home. Get comfy in light bralettes while playing your favorite tunes from an updated Victrola; I think it's best to turn on the fan and sip the day away, Daisy Buchanan style.

Get In The Mood

Movies to watch: Metropolis, Nosferatu, The Jazz Singer, The Great Gatsby (1926), Pandora's Box, It

Books to read: All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque, This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald, To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf, A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway, The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

1930s

Get the Look

Even as the country struggled financially after the Stock Market crash, women of the era still crafted a style all their own. There was a return to a more conservative tone, away from the reckless abandon of the flappers; the natural waist re-appeared and more structured undergarments came with it. But for evening, they opted for a new daring low back and glamorous pin curls. Athletic wear for women became readily available, so make time for a fashionable game of tennis (or you can at least pretend). It's all about floral, shirt dresses, and monograms on your person; those with a little money for home decor favored black and white geometric designs and mirrored surfaces.

Get in the Mood

Movies to watch: Wizard of Oz, Gone With the Wind, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, City Lights, King Kong, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Public Enemy

Books to read: Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell, The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

1940s

Get the Look

The boys may have been off to war, but that didn't mean the girls were sitting at home (nor that they weren't looking fabulous). Women worked as nurses, in factories, planted victory gardens, played baseball, and their fashion changed accordingly with the times. Hem lengths shortened to use less fabric; heels sported wood or cork wedges and peep toes to save materials for the war effort. Bright fabrics were in, with dresses that emphasized the waist through broader shoulders and peplum-ed hips. Tan, navy, and green were popular to mimic military uniforms, along with accessories that supported the troops. Hawaiian prints and themes were fashionable trends for the home, as well as for dresses and swimsuits.

Get in the Mood

Movies to watch: Casablanca, Citizen Kane, Fantasia, Rope, The Big Sleep, The Philadelphia Story (1940), It's A Wonderful Life, Meet Me In St. Louis, The Shop Around the Corner, National Velvet, State Fair (1945)

Books to read: For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway, The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas, 1984 by George Orwell, The Stranger by Albert Camus, Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, Death of Salesman by Arthur Miller

1950s

Get The Look

Time to embrace pastels, science-inspired patterns, and chrome! Aqua and pink are great for furniture, appliances, and dresses alike. Get fancy with halter dresses with a full skirt, topped with a beaded sweater. Dressing down? Great, because pants are in! Try a high waisted pair with slim ankles, paired with a neckscarf and a casual ponytail. Or, join the boys club with a black leather jacket, since you're a rebel without a cause. A pair of cat-eye glasses and good set of pumps finish off any outfit.

Get in the Mood

Movies to watch: 12 Angry Men, North by Northwest, Some Like it Hot, Rear Window, Roman Holiday, Singin' in the Rain, Rebel Without a Cause, Streetcar Named Desire, An American in Paris, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

Books to read: Lolita by Vladimir Nabakov, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison, Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett